POLICE stormed six suspected drug dens across Cheltenham this morning as part of a synchronised bust.
The search warrants were executed at addresses in Rowanfield, Hester’s Way and Bishop’s Cleeve during the operation which involved about 100 officers.
Suspected Class A drugs and cash were seized, and 11 people were arrested.
The action was the first visible activity carried out under Operation Perth, which has been running covertly since mid-November.
Detective Inspector Alistair Armstrong, who is leading the operation, said: “This operation began last November when we began gathering intelligence regarding the activities of suspected drug dealers.
“We have, since then, gathered the evidence necessary to conduct the search warrants which we executed this morning, and arrest these 11 individuals.
“The operation has been a coordinated effort between departments across the Constabulary, and is part of our ongoing drive to tackle serious and organised crime.
“The distribution of illegal drugs is harmful to our communities, which is why we have made tackling it a priority.
“I hope this operation will ensure people living within the areas targeted realise that we are there to support the law abiding majority, and will not hesitate to take action against the minority who are involved in criminal activity.”
Those arrested in the operation are seven men and four women, aged between 18 and 53 years of age. Ten of them are being questioned on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, the 11th has been arrested on suspicion of breaching bail.
